Constipation has a number of reasons why it happens. A lot of people think that some things are normal because many suffer from the same symptom, or a doctor told them it’s normal. But, just because many people have it, does not mean normal. It is a common symptom, not normal. Our body was not designed to just hold in toxins like this.
It’s been seen that when you have hypothyroidism, it is common to suffer from constipation. Why does this happen? At a simple level, hypothyroidism can slow down the digestive system for many people. So, if things ain’t moving, things are stuck, and now you are in pain. Regular bowel movements are very important.
There can be a number of causes of why we can’t empty our bowels. We see many things online and on social media apps of different recommendations. Let me tell you, there are things too wild for me to try. There is only one main reasons I won’t try something, food allergies. Other than that, you can catch me trying it all.
1. Probiotics
This has been the most effective for me. For many people when they’ve experienced lots of food imbalances, toxins, leaky gut, and other ailments, their gut flora can suffer serious damages. Pre and probiotics are very helpful to restore the gut flora, thus helping many with having a good bowel movement. My all-time favorite one was the Mary Ruth’s Liquid probiotic. They recently changed from water to oil based. I can vouch for the water based, but I can’t use it anymore since the oil is MCT. These are derived from coconuts, and unfortunately, I cannot consume these. But, I have family members that use it and swear by it. So, definitely worth a try.
2. Sauerkraut & Kombucha
Just like with probiotics, it can help restore that gut flora and gets things moving. My favorite sauerkraut is in its simplest form, and store bought.
Just like kombucha, store bought, and mango flavored. I don’t attempt making them because I don’t trust myself to make them. Some stores sell kits to make them, like this one… But can’t say that I’ve tried it. I don’t trust myself to make it because if not prepared properly it can lead to negative reactions. It is very important to follow instructions.
3. Castor oil
This is one I have not tried, because allergy fears. But, I’ve seen people ingest it or apply it on the abdomen and it’s actually worked. If you decide to try it, make sure you read the instructions properly.
This is one that I’d say, use it for very short term. It’s to get out of a…..pickle, literally. You don’t want your body becoming dependent. You want to find the root cause and treat it. So, I’d do some research on this one. Here is one site, and here is another. These are research articles.
4. Magnesium
There are so many types of magnesium. It can get confusing trying to remember which one is for which. For me, I take magnesium citrate. Yes, it’s more commonly used for calming effects. But, in my personal case, that’s what it seems I needed, to relax the muscles enough to give my body the space to have the bowel movement.
My favorite one has been the Calm powders. I used to use it mostly at night to help get a better night sleep, now I used it earlier in the day to keep my anxiety levels at bay. In the beginning, I used to use it at night just in case I had too much bowel movement. I started with 1/8 tsp at first, just to see what my body can handle, and then progressed from there.
5. Somatic workouts
This will seem like a lot of woo-woo to many people. But it has been an interesting journey.
Somatic workouts or exercises are mindful movements which the goal is to help the body relax, release stress, promoting physical and mental well-being. For many people this can look like yoga itself or be yoga. I’ve practice some relaxing movements from yoga, and the ones I’ve done with somatic exercises in specific seem to be a bit different.
Currently I am using the teachings from The Workout Witch. She is awesome. You can find books and youtube videos on the matter.
6. Water
Drink your water, preferably with electrolytes. If we are dehydrated, it can also slow down the bowel movement. Just because you drink a gallon of water a day, it doesn’t mean you might be holding it, or your body using it properly. Especially when suffering from autoimmune conditions. Which is why I say, definitely add electrolytes. I use water with it like Smart Water, and some of my friends like to add electrolytes.
7. Fiber
A lot of people say, fiber is the way to go. For some people it just packs you up more. And it’s hard and painful. Yes it is good to have fiber in your daily diet. When I’m having regular bowel movements, fiber is amazing. But when I’m not, this is not going to work for me at all. Feel out where you are, see what foods you are consuming, where can you add more fiber in your diet.
8. Prune juice
I got a giggle with this. Many people swear by it. I’ve tried it, and oh my goodness, not worth the hype. But if you’re into prunes, amiga, go for it.
9. Apple juice
For many people juices are not good. For many different reasons. But I have seen a laxative effect on some people by drinking a glass of apple juice. I've experienced it occasionally, I use Simply Apple.
10. Your thyroid meds
This is one that you have to track, and evaluate. Once you do, it’s important to have a conversation with your doctor. If your medication dose is not optimal for YOU, it can mean you are still in a hypothyroid state. You can be doing all the right things, but if you are taking medication, and it’s not the right dose for you, it can create setbacks. Have that conversation with your doctor if you notice this may be the problem.
No matter which thing you decide to try, or if all, things can take time. Give it a few days to see if your body is accepting of it. And also, remember, it took days, years even for the body to start giving you these symptoms. It cannot be fixed in a day. Just because all of a sudden you have constipation, does not mean it wasn’t already happening on the inside. Give yourself grace to heal.
I hope this can be helpful for you amiga.
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